Not necessarily. If the dimensions are not required, most manufacturers get away with it by making dishwashers only available in one model, so they don’t have to build different-sized ones. If you need specific measurements for your space, you should contact the manufacturer to find out what’s available. But it’s important to know the standard size of dishwashers so plan things properly.
But keep in mind that dishwasher sizes vary by brand, so if you plan on replacing an existing unit or using one that the previous owners of your house used, be sure to take measurements before buying or hiring someone to install it. Also, consider whether there is room next to the unit for cups or cooking utensils since some models have no space for anything but plates.
Measure the dishwashers Width
Use a tape measure to measure the space between your cabinets. Turn off the water and electricity to the dishwasher, and take off any bottom sprayers or filters. Open the dishwasher door and place one end of the measuring tape against one side of the inside frame above where you would load dishes into, and then pull it across to where you would load dishes from on the other side. Record this number as “A” in your notes.
Take measurements of each side of your cabinet opening for total measurement B
Take measurements from top cabinet edge to bottom edge going straight down on both sides for measurement C
- Measurements A + B + C = Dishwashers Width
- Take measurements of each side of your cabinet opening for total measurement B
By using a tape measure, you can get an idea of how deep your dishwasher is. Turn off the water supply and electrical power to the dishwasher before taking this measurement. Insert the measuring tape into the dishwasher through either door or in between open compartments and then out again where you would load dishes into it. Record that number as “A” in your notes. Take measurements at both doors (if it’s two-door) and record “B” in your notes.
Measure the Dishwashers Depth
Measure the depth of your dishwasher by measuring from the front edge to the back. If you have two racks, measure to the top one and then sit about each other. When you take measurements, be sure not to count any handles or parts that stick out as part of the depth measurement record “A” as your first number for this measurement.
If possible, open up both compartments so you can get an accurate idea of where things line up inside measure to the very bottom rack and record “B.”
Alternatively, if your dishwasher has adjustable tines, take measurements between them with a tape measure instead for measurements A + B.
For average home kitchens (where most owners don’t need efficiency ratings), check the clearance measurements for your cabinets, appliances, and furniture so you can determine whether or not they fit. These numbers are usually written in millimeters.
Measure the Height of Dishwashers
If there’s no gap between countertops and cabinetry, measure to the bottom edge where dishes sit inside and if there’s a gap, take measurement “A” at that height directly underneath any tallest item on top (countertop edges work well). Another method is to measure from the floor up to the bottom edge where dishes sit inside since everything has gaps somewhere. Record this number as “B.”
However, you get your measurements when reporting them to someone else who needs them (they can use them in measuring space).
Last Words
You can also use a tape measure to estimate the height of the dishwasher. Turn off the water supply and electrical power to the dishwasher before taking this measurement. If measuring from the bottom, insert the measuring tape into the dishwasher through either door or in between compartments that are open and then out again where you would load dishes into it. Record that number as “A.”
However, you get your measurements when reporting them to someone else who needs them (they can use them in measuring space).
Be sure to take measurements of both sides if there’s a partition dividing two sections inside. This is particularly important for newer model units with adjustable tines located on the side of the racks instead of underneath because they have different heights depending.